About Norseman Mortgages

Mortgage advice built on experience.

At Norseman Mortgages, we combine deep banking knowledge with a practical, personal approach to mortgage financing. From a first home to a refinance, renewal, investment property, or a more complex file, we take the time to understand where you are and what you are trying to achieve.

Meet the Team

Tino Brelak, MBA

Principal Broker

Tino Brelak, MBA, Principal Broker at Norseman Mortgages

Hi, I’m Tino. I’m the Principal Broker of Norseman Mortgages here in Etobicoke, and a recognized mortgage financing expert. Outside of the office, I’m a dedicated soccer dad and a self-proclaimed foodie.

My entire career has been anchored in finance. I hold an MBA and have been in the banking industry since 1998. Over the years, I gained invaluable experience working for various financial institutions—including a leading Canadian bank—taking on diverse roles such as financial advisor, credit auditor, and branch manager.

While my work has involved mortgages since the early days of my career, I eventually shifted my full focus to become a dedicated mortgage broker. Because I have worked across so many different areas of banking, I know the ins and outs of our financial systems from every angle.

Over the past two decades, I’ve used this combination of hands-on experience and industry expertise to help thousands of clients and friends secure the exact mortgage deal that’s right for them.

Whether you are a first-time home buyer stepping into the market, a seasoned real estate investor, or an existing homeowner looking to renew or refinance, I work with you individually. I handle residential, commercial, and private mortgages, taking the time to understand your specific needs and goals before building a customized mortgage plan. I speak English, Serbian, Italian, and Ukrainian, which allows me to support clients from a range of backgrounds in the language they feel most comfortable with.

I maintain strong relationships with a wide network of major banks, credit unions, trust companies, and private lenders. Over the years, I have earned their respect and trust to negotiate competitive terms on behalf of my clients.
My philosophy is simple: we’re in this together, and we both win when you get the best deal. I’ll walk you through the entire process, help you avoid the common pitfalls, and introduce you to different options. Your real estate purchase is likely the most significant investment you’ll make—both personally and financially—and I’m committed to giving it (and you) the attention it deserves.

My help doesn’t end when you close the deal. I manage and monitor your mortgage for as long as you have it, providing my best advice as the market changes.

Looking forward to working together!

Taras Bablak, BCom

Mortgage Agent, Level 2

Taras Bablak, BCom, Mortgage Agent, Level 2 at Norseman Mortgages

Hi, I’m Taras. I’m a Mortgage Agent with Norseman Mortgages, and for me, mortgages have always been about more than numbers and interest rates. They’re about helping people make important decisions, find opportunities, and build a future.

I spent eight years working my way up through BCU Financial, where I developed a passion for mortgages and, more importantly, for helping people. Over the years, I’ve helped many families navigate their mortgage journey—from first-time homebuyers purchasing their first home, to homeowners looking to consolidate debt, and investors purchasing rental properties.

That experience also led me to become a real estate investor myself. I’ve been investing in real estate for over 10 years, giving me a practical perspective on the opportunities, challenges, and risks that come with owning and investing in real estate. I bring that personal experience to every client I work with.

In 2020, I joined Norseman Mortgages, where I’ve continued to help clients find mortgage solutions that fit their individual circumstances. I work with first-time buyers, homeowners, self-employed clients, investors, and those who may not fit neatly into a traditional lending box. My approach is simple: understand where you are today, where you want to go, and find the right mortgage strategy to help you get there.

Outside of mortgages and real estate, my biggest priority is my family. I’m a husband and proud dad, and I enjoy travelling, sports, and spending time outdoors. Golf is also a big passion of mine, and I’m always happy to find an excuse to get out on the course. Giving back to the Ukrainian community is also a big part of my life. I grew up with Barvinok Ukrainian Dance School and CYM camps, and today I serve on the Board of Directors of the UNF Toronto.

I speak English, Ukrainian, and Polish fluently, and I’m proud to work with clients from a wide range of backgrounds. Whether you’re buying your first home, growing your real estate portfolio, refinancing, or simply trying to figure out what your options are, I’m here to help.

Why Clients Choose Norseman

The right mortgage starts with the right conversation.

Mortgage financing is rarely one-size-fits-all. We bring lender knowledge, real-world perspective, and clear communication to every conversation.

01

Banking experience

We understand how lenders look at income, credit, equity, and risk - and how to present your application properly.

02

Options that fit

Major banks, credit unions, trust companies, and private lenders all have different strengths. We help identify the options that make sense for you.

03

Advice that stays with you

Our relationship does not end at closing. We remain available as rates, life, and your mortgage needs change.

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A mortgage is a major decision. You should never feel rushed through it.

We explain the numbers, the trade-offs, and the options in plain language—so you can move forward with confidence. Whether you are purchasing your first home, refinancing to access equity, renewing an existing mortgage, or financing an investment property, we are here to guide the process from the first conversation through closing and beyond.

Every client’s situation is different. We take the time to understand your goals, review the details that matter, and connect you with financing options that fit – not simply the first option available. You will know where things stand, what the next step is, and why it makes sense for you.

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Let’s Find The Right Way Forward.

Whether you’re buying your first home, planning a refinance, renewing an existing mortgage, or growing a real estate portfolio, the right financing starts with a conversation. Tell us where you are today and what you want to achieve—we’ll help you understand the options and build a plan around them.

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Modern single-storey home with a wide driveway

Mortgage Questions, Clear Answers

What clients often ask us.

A mortgage broker helps you explore financing options from a range of lenders and guides you through the application process. At Norseman, we review your situation, explain the available choices, prepare the application, and help negotiate mortgage terms on your behalf.

For many standard residential mortgages, the lender pays the broker’s compensation, so there is generally no direct cost to the borrower. Some private, commercial, or more complex financing arrangements may involve fees; if that applies, we explain them clearly before you proceed.

Yes. A bank decline does not always mean financing is impossible. We review why the application was declined, assess the full picture, and explore whether another lender or a different mortgage structure may be appropriate.

Ideally, yes. Speaking with a broker before you begin your search can help you understand your budget, the likely down payment and closing costs, and what type of mortgage may fit your plans. A pre-approval can also make you better prepared when the right property comes up.

Absolutely. A renewal is a good time to reassess your rate, term, payment structure, and future plans. You do not have to accept your current lender’s renewal offer without comparing your options.

Yes. These files often require a more detailed approach to income, property, and overall financial structure. We work with self-employed clients and investors to identify lending options that reflect their circumstances and objectives.

Ask Us Anything, Anytime.

Tell us what you need the mortgage for. We’ll review it and follow up with a straight answer.